Stevedore

Stevedores manually load and unload transportation vehicles, such as large moving vans, railroad cars, and ships. Stevedores use moving equipment to transport items to and from storage facilities.

Duties and tasks

Attaches identification tags to items in preparation for transportation

Guides truck drivers through tight spaces

Installs protective devises to keep items from shifting during transportation

Moves freight or other items to and from storage areas

Records number of items that will be transported

Sorts items before loading and unloading

Skills required

A drivers license

Able to accomplish tasks quickly

Effectively uses communication systems

Pays attention to work orders

Physically able to move and lift heavy items

Working conditions

Stevedores must physically be able to handle the demands of the job, for there is a lot of climbing, lifting, shoving and carrying of items involved. Much of the time is spent outdoors, and you have to be willing to deal with all kinds of weather. Some Stevedores are hired seasonally only.